If you are a coach  looking to develop your knowledge in coaching ultra runners,  looking to become a coach or simply want to be able to coach yourself then the Mile 27 Ultra Coaching Certificate presents an evidence-based approach to all facets of coaching ultra runner.

What you will learn

This course differs significantly from the Level 3 Ultrarunning certificate offered by Athletics Australia. If you just want that certification then this course is not for you but if you want an in-depth understanding of how to coach ultrarunners at a much greater level of detail and understanding of anything else on the market then keep reading . 

This three day course will leave you with the knowledge and skills to confidently design training plans for any type of athlete preparing for any kind of ultra.  But coaching is not just about writing  training plans,  the course also goes into race preparation  and planning , nutrition , pacing an ultra, how to avoid a DNF, mental preparation  and much more . The topics for the three day course are 

 

Day 1 

Factors that influence ultramrathon performance – a review of the literature and implications in program design

3 and 5 Zone Model of Training intensity – origins , definitions , limitations , myths

Defining Thresholds ( LT1, LT2 , CP, VO2 max  etc ) , do thresholds even really exist ?  Latest research 

Training Metrics – Heart rate , pace, power , RPE  – pros and cons , when and how to use them

Periodisation of training – models , phases of training , polarised vs  pyramidal training distribition

Volume – how much is enough , how to progress 

Vert – how much is enough , when its too much 

Long run , Speed sessions , Hill sessions , Easy runs,  Downhills ,Hiking Sessions  ,Stair  Sessions ,Strides 

– why do them , how to periodise these sessions throughout a training year , different types of sessions , intensity of each 

 

Day 2 

Training plan design – putting it all together- difference trainng for 50, 100km , 100 mile and longer

Assessing strengths and weakness of athletes  –  how that relates to their program design – why different athletes of simlar ability  training for the same race  may train differently 

Data Analysis – key metrics for  during workouts , post workout analysis , race analysis 

Running Form  – what is good running form , assessment , recommendations 

Technical Trail skills – how to develop them 

Injury Prevention  returning to training after an injury , training when injured 

Recovery Modalities 

Environmental Factors  – altitude , heat , humidity , cold 

Training Women vs Men , Older vs Younger 

Day 3 

Nutrition – limits of professional advice , training nutrition, race nutrition , hydration , gut training, fat burning vs carb burning  

Race Planning – race selection  (A,B,C races ) , race analysis, goals 

Racing Frequency , recovery  from races 

Pre race checklist 

Pacing Strategies 

Avoiding a DNF

Aid Station management 

Sleep Deprivation 

Cramp 

Psychology – mental strategies,  goal setting , fatigue models , developing positive self talk 

Putting it all together 

Role of a coach 

Final Q&A 

 

Course Prerequisites 

Whilst there are no prerequisites  in terms of other coaching certificates it is assumed you have a basic knowledge of running training. 

Location and Costs
Course will be held in Byron Bay , Nov 14,15,16: 8:30-4:30 

Cost $660 ( inc GST)  

Spots strictly limited – to secure your spot  or for more information please contact Andy  at  academy@mile27.com.au.